Editor,
I’m a musician and musical theatre lover and (Oct. 10) I was brought to tears of joy at the Laguna Playhouse production of Ken Jillson’s inspirational musical “Final Arrangements.”
From the beginning “Goin’ Home to Heaven” sung by Amber Mercomes, the audience knew we were in for a very special treat! Her voice was fully dynamic, plaintive, resonant, and filled with pathos and meaning! I knew I was in for a musical “opera.”
And then when Jennifer Warren stopped the show with “I Believe in Me.”
The skill and the ability of the author, Ken Jillson, and the cast to transfer to the audience the goodness and joy of life brought home through the southern experience of death was transformative.
Then we went on to hear both the men and the women in the cast sing their hearts out to this promising thought of “the new to die for musical” by local star Ken Jillson.
The after performance critique had Ken absorbing all aspects of the audience’s comments. But none commented on the singing or the incredible skill of the performers. I have always loved and appreciated the depth and breath of all performing singers, but the black experience brings it alive with feeling. I felt it throughout last night and I loved it. Both the women and the men gave their all in transmitting the musical skill and pathos of feeling.
The “Met”, Carnegie Hall, Segerstrom Center, and every other high-class music venue could not hold a candle to last night at the Laguna Playhouse! And I’m so very proud of our Laguna Beach who came out to support local resident Ken Jillson. And what a turnout it was! Every seat was full and they came back after the intermission! I’ve lived in several towns during my lifetime and never have I experienced a little city like Laguna gathering together in appreciation for a local playwright, who wrote a new musical honoring still another culture’s interpretation of that Biblical finale and rebirth. I loved it in every way!
Roxanna Ward, one of three musicians who performed the play’s 18 songs, is our very own blessing, a pianist who does her own transference skill in the accompaniments she provides.
A wonderful, enriching, inspirational night was had by all at the Laguna Playhouse!
Carol Reynolds, Laguna Beach
